If you’re visiting Hawaii or just curious about the state’s alcohol laws, one common question is: what time do stores, bars, and restaurants have to stop selling alcohol? Unlike some states, Hawaii’s cut-off times depend a lot on where you are — county liquor commissions set many of the rules. Here’s a breakdown of how it works.
On-Premise Alcohol Sales (Bars, Restaurants, Cabarets)
For drinking at bars or restaurants:
- In many counties, on-premise licenses (for restaurants, clubs, brewpubs, etc.) allow alcohol service from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. the next day.
- Places with a cabaret license — venues that typically have live music, dancing, or a more nightclub-like vibe — are allowed to serve until 4:00 a.m..
- On the Big Island (Hawaii County), according to its liquor commission, dispenser-class establishments must stop at 2:00 a.m..
Off-Premise Alcohol Sales (Retail Stores)
If you’re buying beer, wine, or spirits to take home:
- In Honolulu County, retail alcohol sales are generally allowed from 6:00 a.m. to midnight.
- In Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii (Big Island) counties, many retail liquor or package stores operate from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. for off-premise alcohol
- Notably, Maui County lifted its 11 p.m. cutoff for many retailers years ago. Since 2017, some stores and hotels in Maui can sell alcohol 24 hours a day.
Why the Rules Are Different
- County Control: In Hawaii, each county’s liquor commission sets specific rules under Hawaii Revised Statutes.
- License-Type Matters: Different license classes (e.g., restaurant vs. cabaret) get different allowed hours.
- Local Culture & Safety: These rules help regulate late-night drinking, public safety, and align with community norms in each county.
Key Take-Aways for Visitors & Residents
- Bars & Restaurants: In most places in Hawaii, you can only buy alcohol on-premise until 2:00 a.m. — unless it’s a cabaret, which can go until 4:00 a.m.
- Retail Stores: Alcohol for take-home stops at midnight in Honolulu, but in other counties, many shops close by 11:00 p.m..
- Maui Exception: Some stores and hotels on Maui can sell alcohol around the clock.
- Check Local Rules: Because of county-by-county variation, it’s smart to check the rules for the specific island or neighborhood you’re on — especially late at night.
